Mattel Apologizes for Misprint on "Wicked" Doll Packaging
Error Leads to Adult Website
Toy manufacturer Mattel has apologized for a misprint that appeared on the packaging of its line of "Wicked" dolls, listing an address for an adult website. The error gained steam this weekend after social media users discovered that the link to the film – wickedmovie.com – was mislabeled, sending consumers to Wicked Pictures, an independent adult film company.
Statement from Mattel
Mattel was made aware of a misprint on the packaging of the Mattel Wicked collection dolls, primarily sold in the U.S., which intended to direct consumers to the official WickedMovie.com landing page. We deeply regret this unfortunate error and are taking immediate action to remedy this.
Merchandise and Film
The merchandise was to coincide with the highly anticipated Universal film. The packaging included the boxes holding Elphaba and Glinda dolls. In the film, Elphaba is played by Cynthia Erivo and Glinda played by Ariana Grande. News of the eyebrow-raising mistake came a day after Erivo, Grande, and Jennifer Lopez, as well as Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, who starred in the original Broadway blockbuster, appeared at the movie’s premiere at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The film, directed by John M. Chu, is set to open in theaters on November 22.
Action Taken
On Sunday, the line of dolls manufactured by Mattel was pulled from stores including Target, one of Universal’s retail partners on the movie, and was being removed from other stores such as Walmart, according to the Hollywood Reporter. Parents are advised that the misprinted, incorrect website is not appropriate for children. Consumers who already have the product are advised to discard the product packaging or obscure the link and may contact Mattel Customer Service for further information.
Conclusion
Mattel’s apology and swift action to rectify the situation are a positive step in addressing the issue. The company’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its customers, particularly children, is commendable. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of quality control and attention to detail in the manufacturing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the error on the packaging of the "Wicked" dolls?
A: The error was a misprint that listed an address for an adult website instead of the official WickedMovie.com landing page.
Q: Who is affected by the error?
A: Consumers who purchased the dolls and parents who may have given the dolls to their children are affected by the error.
Q: What action is Mattel taking to remedy the situation?
A: Mattel is pulling the dolls from stores, advising parents to discard the product packaging or obscure the link, and providing customer service support for consumers who already have the product.
Q: Is the film "Wicked" affected by the error?
A: No, the film "Wicked" is not affected by the error. The incident is limited to the packaging of the dolls.